Robust Load Break Switches for Safe Electrical System Isolation in 2023

Load break switches enable secured power isolation and switching in heavy ampacity distribution circuits. With ratings up to 38kV and 3000A, GRL’s UL/IEC-rated load break switches offer robust electrical system protection.

Contact GRL today to discuss implementing cost-optimized yet rugged load break switches in your upcoming projects. GRL can provide technical guidance and budget-friendly solutions to meet your power switching needs.

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Introduction

Load break switches provide a safe and reliable means to disconnect, isolate and switch electrical power distribution circuits. With ratings up to 38kV and 3000A, heavy duty load break switches are a versatile solution for power control in commercial and industrial facilities.

Load break switches differ from disconnect switches thanks to designs that minimize arcing when opening circuits under load. This allows hot switching and isolation of live power circuits. GRL manufactures high quality UL/IEC-rated load break switches for critical power switching applications.

Product Offerings

GRL provides load break switches with:

  • Ampacities – 200A to 3000A models
  • Voltage – Up to 38kV maximum voltage
  • Poles – Single, double, triple and quad pole configurations
  • Enclosures – NEMA 1, 3R, 4X and 12 options

Additional accessories include fuse kits, auxiliary contacts, interlocks and custom label colors. GRL load break switches carry global UL, IEC, CE and CSA certifications.

With robust construction and quality components, GRL load break switches provide decades of reliable service. Contact GRL today for your load break switch requirements from 200A to 3000A.

Key Selection Considerations

Choosing the right load break switch involves:

Electrical Load and Fault Current

Select switches rated for the maximum continuous and fault current levels.

Safety and Redundancy

Load break switches serve as a first line of defense for isolating faults. Pick appropriately rated units.

Environment

Indoor, outdoor, dust/moisture levels dictate required NEMA enclosure ratings.

Future Expansion

Plan spare space and capacity for additional loads and upsizing.

Discuss your specific application with GRL’s team to select ideal switch ratings, poles, and accessories.

Installation Guidance

Installing load break switches properly involves:

Mounting

Securely mount units with adequate clearances and workspace per NEC standards.

Wiring

Use copper cables sized based on ampacity. Avoid aluminum at terminals.

Overcurrent Protection

Fuses or breakers sized per NEC guidelines protect the switches.

Testing

Test operation, insulation and grounding to validate proper installation before energization.

Robust installation ensures optimal load break switch safety and performance.

Advantages of GRL Load Break Switches

GRL load break switches offer:

Robust Construction

Heavy duty handles, bases and enclosures withstand harsh conditions.

Reliable Operation

Tested contact materials and mechanisms provide consistent switching.

Cost Savings

Affordable pricing compared to major brands.

Customization

Enclosures, poles, ratings can be adapted to needs.

Quality Assurance

Stringent quality control ensures reliable performance.

GRL load break switches bring safety, capabilities and value together in a ruggedly engineered product.

GRL-HGL load break disconnect switch

Frequently Asked Questions

What are load break switches used for?

Load break switches provide a safe way to isolate, disconnect and switch electrical loads and branch circuits. They minimize arcing when opening under load.

What are the different types of load break switches?

The major types are rotary handle, enclosed, fusible, bolted pressure and motor operated switches. Different pole counts and ratings suit various applications.

What ratings should I look for when choosing a load break switch?

Key specifications are voltage, amperage, interrupting rating, NEMA enclosure rating, number of poles, and available accessories.

How do I determine the correct amperage for a load break switch?

Choose switches with ampacity at least 125% greater than the maximum expected continuous load current. This allows for future expansion.

What safety features do load break switches provide?

Load break design, proper enclosures, interlocks, fuses and inspection windows allow safe isolation and switching of live power circuits.

How many poles do I need for my load break switch?

The number of poles depends on the phase conductors being disconnected. Single pole for 1 phase, double for split phase, triple for three phase circuits.

What types of enclosures are available for load break switches?

Common NEMA enclosures are Type 1, 3R, 4X and 12 for indoor, outdoor, watertight and dust-tight locations.

How do I install and connect a load break switch?

Follow manufacturer guidance for mounting, wiring, torque levels and clearances. Use properly sized lugs and cables based on ampacity.

How do I properly size cables and lugs for a load break switch?

Cables should have 125% capacity versus maximum current. Lugs must be properly rated and tightened to torque specs to avoid hot spots.

What maintenance is required for load break switches?

Test operation annually, check connections every 2-5 years, replace contacts as needed. Keep enclosure sealed. Lubricate moving parts if applicable.

How long is the lifespan of a typical load break switch?

With routine maintenance, a quality load break switch will often perform consistently for 10 years or more before replacement is required.

What are UL ratings and why are they important for load break switches?

UL listing certifies the switch is designed and tested to meet NEC safety standards. This reassures inspectors and insurance providers.

What are some top load break switch manufacturers?

Well-known brands are Eaton, Schneider Electric, Siemens, ABB and General Electric. GRL provides similar quality at lower cost.

How do I safely operate a load break switch?

Use insulated gloves, stand to the side when operating, open slowly, double check circuits are deenergized before servicing.

How do load break switches differ from isolating switches?

Load break switches are designed to interrupt modest load currents safely. Isolating switches are not intended to break loads.

Can load break switches be automated?

Yes, motor operators allow remote control of load break switches. This enables automatic transfer between sources.

Are load break switches suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, NEMA 3R or 4X enclosures provide outdoor and wet location ratings. Stainless steel resists corrosion.

How do you determine fault current ratings for load break switches?

Review short circuit current study results for maximum available fault current. Pick a switch with interrupting rating above this.

What switchgear do load break switches install into?

Common switchgear includes MCCs, switchboards, panelboards and custom switch enclosures.

How do I safely test and inspect a load break switch?

Follow NFPA 70E guidelines. Use PPE, properly test operation from a distance, double check deenergization before inspection.

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